My Brother from a different Mother (War is Hell)

Those of us who have been in the Military, gone through basic training, spent day after day in grueling conditions, know the bond that exists between Soldiers. It is a bond like no other. When you are in a War zone that bond becomes a necessity. You must put your life in the hands of those around you. I will always feel a kinship to my brothers and sisters in Arms. I support them, I respect them, and I am so proud to know them. I hope that one day we the people of the world can put aside that which drives us to that most horrific act, the act of war. Saying that, we all agree that if we are attacked, it is our duty to answer the call. War is unforgiving!

Today, this strikes close to home. My friend and co-worker is training, preparing for forward deployment. It is his third deployment since our paths crossed seven years ago. His first in Afghanistan, then Iraq, then back to Afghanistan. His family, torn between their pride in his service, and the gut wrenching pain they feel saying goodbye to him once again. I too feel the pain. Not the same as his parents, his wife, and his children of course, but as that Brother who has shared in the service of our Country. In his last tour he was responsible for convoy security, one of the worst jobs in Iraq. Driving all over the war zone delivering supplies where needed. Improvised Explosive Devices, shook their convoy six times. Only his leadership and his men's training allowed all but one (in his support group) to come home. War is Merciless!

I was standing at his work station at 0615 when he received his latest orders and I could tell right away something was wrong. I was asking him how his wife and kids were doing. He turned his computer screen towards me and as I read the email I wanted to scream. Is this some cruel email joke? No! No one could be that evil. Every day, I am thankful for how blessed I am, and when I see my children I hug them tightly, not just for me, but for his children. To have your Father leave, not once, not twice, but three times without the possibility of knowing if they will ever see him again. I know that feeling. Not because of war, but because I lost my Father at a young age. It proves again the resiliency of children. Their ability to adapt, to set aside their feelings, never relinquishing them, but keeping them for their quiet times, when they are alone, and can bring them out without fear of showing their pain, their sorrow, their tears. War is Heartless!

Once again my American Flag flies in his honor, and the honor of his soldiers. Rain or shine, day and night. It will fly until his return. I hope that all who read this will pray for my friend, all of our Soldiers and their families who share in the ultimate sacrifice, who accept the call of duty. And I hope you celebrate the honor of their service. Regardless of why they were sent, they were called, and they answered yet again. To my Brother from a different Mother, stay Frosty, keep your head down, and most importantly come home soon. War is Hell! BigBlogAlphaDog